UPDATE: A groundbreaking app called Dibbs has just launched, offering a unique platform for local businesses to engage customers without any marketing fees. Brothers Jj and Emmanuel Arciga have seen an overwhelming response, with over 400 users signing up during its beta phase, signaling a potential shift in how communities support local commerce.
The Dibbs app allows users to “call dibs” on exclusive deals from local businesses. Users pay just 10% of the deal’s value upfront, securing significant savings, while businesses receive the full payment when customers redeem their offers. This innovative model eliminates upfront costs for businesses, creating a win-win scenario.
“We’ve partnered with 30 local businesses so far and aim to make this the go-to app for everything local,” Jj Arciga stated. The app is designed to be user-friendly, allowing businesses to easily promote their deals, while users can browse and select offers seamlessly.
Since launching the beta version shortly after Christmas, feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The Arciga brothers are currently fine-tuning the app’s features, including enhancing the redemption process and integrating AI technology to improve user experience. They plan to officially launch the final version in March 2024, with an expected 75 businesses onboard.
Why This Matters NOW: As the economic landscape evolves, local businesses need innovative solutions to thrive. Dibbs provides a platform that not only benefits consumers with discounts but also empowers small businesses with low-cost marketing tools.
The idea for Dibbs originated from Emmanuel Arciga’s experience with his own sporting goods store, which was severely impacted by the 2017 Tubbs Fire. He realized the need for a platform that genuinely supports small businesses after facing challenges with existing marketplace apps. “I wanted to create something that helps both businesses and consumers — a way for a community to support each other,” he explained.
Emmanuel teamed up with Jj, who was pursuing a degree in animal science at Chico State. Despite having no formal software engineering background, the brothers persevered, driven by their vision. Jj, who graduated in December 2024, dedicated his final year to launching Dibbs, demonstrating his commitment to entrepreneurship.
The brothers complement each other well; Jj focuses on business onboarding and community engagement, while Emmanuel manages development and operations. “It’s been a great learning experience,” Emmanuel noted, reflecting on their collaborative journey.
What’s Next: The Arciga brothers are not just stopping at Chico. They aim to expand Dibbs to cities across California and eventually nationwide. “If we can make it work in Chico, we can make it work anywhere,” Emmanuel asserted.
Their mission is clear: to make Dibbs the essential app for small businesses, akin to how businesses rely on platforms like Google and Yelp. “Seeing people in the Chico community actually use Dibbs and positively affect the businesses is everything,” Emmanuel concluded.
For more information about the app or to sign up as a beta user or business partner, visit Dibbs at https://thedibbsapp.com. This revolutionary platform is set to reshape local commerce and create stronger community ties.
